Chapter 29

I find Theo exactly where I expect him to be—sitting beneath the old oak tree in the garden, a place that seems to give him solace despite being in unfamiliar territory.

His back is against the rough bark, his arms resting loosely over his bent knees. As I step closer, he lifts his head, his sharp gaze locking onto mine.

"Hey," he greets, his tone casual, but there's an edge to it. "Took you long enough to find me."

I roll my eyes and sit on the grass without invitation. "I knew you'd be here."

He studies me for a moment, then his expression shifts. His eyes flick to my arm, where the bandage is still wrapped securely.

Without a word, he reaches out and takes my wrist, turning it slightly to examine it. His touch is gentle, but his fingers tighten when he sees the wound beneath.

"What the hell happened?" His voice is sharp, demanding.